GSA Town Hall 2026 is a student-run conference that invites students of all backgrounds to present research and/or topics related to ge ography. This is a half-day event featuring workshops\, presentati ons\, and networking opportunities for students interested in Geography and related disciplines\, including (but not limited to) Environmental Science \, Urban Planning\, Earth and Ocean Sciences\, and Atmospheric Sciences. Yo u can choose to present your work to a larger audience\, lead a workshop wi th a smaller group\, or even do both. We also welcome you to utilize previo us assignments or projects you're proud of.
Town Ha ll 2026 is a free and open event. Any UBC student is eligible to a pply\, and all workshop and presentation applications will be autom atically accepted until capacity is reached. The event is currentl y scheduled for 5:30PM on February 5\, 2026\, in GEOG 229.
Participan ts may choose between two formats: Workshops and P resentations.
A workshop is an interactive session designed to engage participants through discussion\, collaboration\ , and/or hands-on activities–emphasizing learning by doing. The typi cal workshop will include:
- A short introduction of the topic or activity\, with a clear learning goal or theme
- Guided discussion or small-group collaboration
- Interactive or hands-on components (e.g. mapping\, brainstorming\, design challenges)
- A closing reflection\ , and space for participants to ask questions or contribute ideas
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Town Hall Confere
nce 2025. Photo Credit: Amanda Quail
A presentation is an individual or group talk that shares research\, projects\, or ideas focused on communicating findings\, arguments\, or insights. Presentations are more organized\, and are similar to TED Talks. The typical presentation will have:
- A short introduction and context of the topic
- Vi sual aids (e.g. slides\, posters\, videos\, or models)
- Time for sma ll-group or audience discussion and questions
Town Hall Conference 2025. Photo Credit: Amanda Quail